ABERDEEN, S.D. – The Northern State University music department will present their annual Jazz Spectacular at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, March 2, in the Johnson Fine Arts Center Main Theater, featuring NSU students and faculty.

The student-led jazz-fusion band, “Jet Lagged,” will kick off the evening’s festivities. “Jet Lagged” is led by NSU student percussionist, Paulo Jimenez. The group will showcase their music with guest performer and NSU music faculty member, Dr. Fred Hemke.

Following “Jet Lagged,” Hemke’s Dixieland Jazz Combo will perform a few pieces, followed by the 2 O’Clock Jazz Ensemble, led by Mr. Grant Manhart.

The 2 O’Clock Jazz Ensemble will perform a variety of music, including the popular game show theme, “Tank,” composed by Yoko Kanna. During the performance of “Tank,” a cartoon will be shown on the screen in the theater. An iconic Latin Jazz piece entitled “Ran Kan Kan,” made famous by Tito Puente will also be performed. Also featured is Hemke on saxophone, performing the Thelonious Monk tune “Round Midnight.” The ensemble will also perform the epic and challenging work “Bulgarian Bulge” as composed and recorded by the odd Meter-Jazz Phenom, Don Ellis.

“There may be a New Orleans tune or two as this concert usually falls during Mardi Gras season,” mentioned Manhart.

Tickets for the event are $5 for adults, $2.50 for NSU faculty/staff and free to NSU students with ID. Tickets can be purchased via the School of Fine Arts website or at the JFAC box office.

Box office hours are Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, noon-4 p.m. The JFAC box office phone number is 605-626-2900.

For more information about the Jazz Spectacular, please contact Mr. Grant Manhart at Grant.Manhart@northern.edu.

About Northern State University

Northern State University offers outstanding academics and exceptional extracurricular activities at an affordable price on a safe, welcoming campus. To learn more about NSU, visit northern.edu/admissions.